“The Great Resignation,” a term coined by professor Anthony Klotz, is the new phenomenon on every employer’s mind. With as many as 95% of workers considering a job change, 9.3 million openings, and 4 million workers resigning in just one month, it’s a valid concern.
The pandemic has forced many to reckon with their work-life balance, and employees now crave more freedom and flexibility to spend time with their loved ones, as well as the ability to set healthy boundaries in regard to their work. Many have learned new skills, and are ready to see what the next chapter of their life has in store for them, while others are seeking a workplace with a different pace.
According to the Prudential Pulse of the American Worker Survey, nearly 45% of workers say their decision to stay in their jobs hinges on how their employers handle workplace re-entry.
As an employer, it may be worrying to hear the statistics and new concerns of your employees, but it doesn’t have to be.
Talk with your employees
Talking at your employees with notes and announcements has proven to be an ineffective management practice time and time again, and may even be counterproductive to your mission of employee retention.
Encouraging your employees to share their feelings with you will help foster an environment of understanding and empathy in your workplace, and will inform your upcoming moves and decisions regarding workplace policy and culture.
Encourage vacation time
People are stressed, with great reason, as navigating both life and work during a pandemic isn’t easy. It’s hard to relax during a time when every day seems to bring out the unexpected.
Let your employees know that you care about their mental and physical well-being and offer up some vacation time. They’re likely to return refreshed after some time away and will be thankful for the opportunity.
Be innovative
Times are changing now more than ever. Pre-pandemic, the thought of working with a hybrid office schedule was a rarity, but now, not so much.
In order to keep up with the ever-changing needs of your staff, and current workplace trends, it’s important to keep an open mind and view your office flexibility as a strength. Being able to accommodate your employees the same way you would for a customer will allow your employees to thrive and will keep your retention high.
